If Humans Behaved More Like Dogs: A Socio-cultural Transformation

Consider the seemingly perfect model society, where individuals exhibit loyalty, helpfulness, friendliness, courtesy, kindness, obedience, cheerfulness, thriftiness, bravery, cleanliness, and reverence. These are attributes often admired and sought after, particularly within organizations such as Boy Scouts, where such values are instilled. Compared to our current human society, such a world would indeed be much better.

Dogs: The Universal Language of Behavior

In a hypothetical scenario, small dog breeds would manifest aggressive and yappy behaviors, while larger dogs would display either dominant or calm personalities, making them natural leaders or team players. Diplomacy could be revolutionized through the universal language of butt-sniffing, enhancing understanding and communication among individuals. This alternative form of interaction might lead to more cohesive and peaceful societies.

The Labrador Scenario: A Vision of Harmony

Imagine a world populated by mostly Labrador Retrievers. In this society, there would be an almost perpetual atmosphere of peace and tranquility, thanks to the dogs' innate nature. For instance, the universal excitement of finding a ball would naturally lead to more playful and cooperative interactions, fostering a sense of community. However, this utopian vision might also raise concerns about social dynamics and the potential for misinterpretation or unwanted attention, especially with the crotch-sniffing behavior that might become a work adaptation (metoo).

A Quadrupedal Society: A Paradigm Shift

Let's explore the implications of a world where humans were quadrupeds instead of bipeds. In such a world, the fundamental differences between quadrupedal and bipedal societies would become evident. Currently, human societies are marked by advanced technology, complex social structures, and diverse cultural practices, all supported by our upright posture and manual dexterity. If we were quadrupedal, we might revert to a simpler, more primal way of life, similar to the era of hunter-gathering.

However, if we maintain our cognitive and technological advancements, some adaptations would still be necessary. For instance, the design of automobiles, furniture, and tools would change dramatically. Cars might have seats and structures specially designed for quadrupeds, eliminating doorknobs and other features that rely on our current body form. Similarly, most tools would be operated differently, with push buttons or mouth controls, necessitating a reimagining of how we interact with technology.

Clothing in such a society would also be a challenge. The complexity of putting on and taking off items meant for hands would likely result in a society where clothing may not have the same importance or function as it does today. This could lead to a shift in our understanding of personal identity and social norms.

Regarding warfare, the adaptability of human quadrupeds might fundamentally change combat strategies. Traditional hand-operated firearms would be replaced by mouth-operated weapons, which could alter not only tactics but also the very nature of conflict. This shift might lead to new forms of warfare that emphasize different physical and cognitive skills.

Ultimately, if humans were to become quadrupeds, our society would indeed resemble a dog's society. While it might offer some benefits in terms of social cohesion and cooperation, it would also bring about significant challenges in terms of daily life, technology, and culture.

Our ability to think, make tools, and engage in fine manipulation are what have allowed societies to develop and thrive. Without these capabilities, our ability to build and maintain tools necessary for mastering fire or other basic survival skills would be severely limited. Therefore, the fundamental nature of human society as we know it would be fundamentally challenged in such a scenario.